In a significant development for both Max Verstappen and the motorsport community, Verstappen Racing has officially announced a multi-year partnership with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport. This collaboration is set to see Verstappen Racing take part in the GT World Challenge Europe, starting in 2026, with 2Seas Motorsport managing the operation.
Previously aligned with Aston Martin, the team experienced considerable success, including winning the Gold Cup title in the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup earlier this year. “We are delighted that Verstappen Racing has chosen to field a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the GT World Challenge Europe,” said Stefan Wendl, head of Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing. He further emphasized the excitement surrounding the venture, stating, “With 2 Seas Motorsport, the project is supported by a highly experienced team that has already achieved numerous successes and championship titles with our car.”
Chris Lulham, a key driver for Verstappen Racing, expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership. “It is really exciting to continue racing in the GT World Challenge Europe, now with a new teammate and new car,” said Lulham. He highlighted the opportunities that come with this transition, adding, “I can’t wait to get started.” Lulham will continue to compete in the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup, now alongside Aston Martin F1 simulator driver Daniel Juncadella.
The new lineup for the Endurance Cup will also feature works Mercedes driver Jules Gounon. This collaborative alignment signifies the ambition and potential of Verstappen Racing as they gear up for the upcoming racing season.
Max Verstappen himself has been deepening his involvement in GT racing, having competed and achieved success in prior events. Notably, he partnered with Lulham at the Nordschleife, leading to a memorable victory in the NLS9 race with a Ferrari 296 GT3. However, with the forthcoming regulations in the 2026 Formula 1 season, which marks a significant shift in technical requirements, his focus may need to remain primarily on F1.
Despite this potentially limiting his participation in GT racing as an active driver, Verstappen's role as a team owner will flourish with the support of famous Mercedes technology and racing pedigree. He recently participated in a test at the Estoril circuit in Portugal, where he shared driving time in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 alongside Gounon.
As the competition landscape evolves, both Verstappen Racing and Mercedes-AMG Motorsport look forward to a promising future in the GT racing sphere. With immense prospects and high-stakes challenges, the 2026 season will undoubtedly be an exciting one both for the team and motorsport fans around the world. The crossover of talents between F1 and GT racing continues to attract attention, positioning Verstappen as a pivotal figure in this dynamic interplay of elite motorsport disciplines.

